This 1985 Audi 90 2.2 quattro is a special piece of quattro history: originally designed as an elegant mid-range saloon with a five-cylinder engine and quattro drive, it was not converted into a competition car, but rather interpreted in the style of the legendary rally Quattros, with respect for its veteran status.
The 2.2-litre five-cylinder engine delivers around 150 hp, offering the characteristic richly resonant power delivery that made Audi famous in the 1980s. With its striking Mobil 1 design, veteran status, and careful technical modifications, it is a roadworthy tribute to the great Quattro era – without losing the authenticity of the original. First registered on 28 March 1985, this Audi 90 was the upmarket version of the Audi 80: solid, comfortable, and sporty at the same time. Its permanent all-wheel drive made it one of the vehicles that established the concept of the sure-footed saloon on the road – long before ‘all-wheel drive’ became a buzzword.
After its acquisition in 2023, the Audi was technically overhauled and its appearance was modelled on the great rally icons of the time. The original plan was to completely rebuild it for rallying, but this would have involved a great deal of work, so it was decided to opt for a gentle interpretation in keeping with the period. Among other things, the documentation includes revisions to the transmission and differential, a reinforced chassis, underride protection, modified cooling, and an optimised fuel supply. These modifications improve drivability while remaining within the scope of the veteran regulations.
Visually, the car draws on the great role models of Group B. The Mobil 1/Michelin design references the iconic rally Quattros of the 1980s without attempting to be a copy. Its angular silhouette, authentic colour scheme, and understated motorsport look immediately convey the vibe of that era. The fact that the Audi 90 was never used in factory racing makes it all the more interesting: it tells the story of the Quattro principle beyond pure competition.
With around 150 hp from its 2.2-litre five-cylinder engine, the car offers a balanced mix of performance and everyday practicality. It is driven regularly – not as a museum piece, but as a classic car that is still very much alive, showing off its rally genes on Alpine roads or at light rally events. Thanks to its low weight and symmetrical all-wheel drive balance, it exhibits neutral, predictable handling – one of the great virtues of early Quattro technology.
This Audi 90 2.2 quattro is not an over-restored show car conversion, but an honestly preserved, technically revised youngtimer that brings the fascination of the Audi rally era to life. With its veteran status, period-correct modifications, and characteristic five-cylinder mechanics, it embodies the blend of solidity and emotion that laid the foundation for Audi's success story.
